Nathaniel watched me, his expression shifting from arrogance to something resembling concern. But I didn’t want his pity; I wanted him to leave me alone.

“Veronica,” he said softly, taking a step closer. “I didn’t mean to hurt you. I just—”

“Just what?” I interrupted, my voice trembling with anger and pain. “You think you can just waltz in here and take everything away from me? Your mother already tried once; do you really think I’ll let you do it again?”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair, a gesture that did nothing to calm my racing heart. “You don’t understand. I’ve been struggling with this. I didn’t want...